Cortland Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Cortland has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, technology, marketing, finance, human resources, and investment management.

Driven by a commitment to innovation, Cortland is dedicated to transforming the multifamily real estate landscape through integrated design, construction, and management services, fostering exceptional living experiences and sustainable growth across its global portfolio.

Leadership Roles at Cortland

  • Chief Executive Officer - Stephen DeFrancis
  • Owner & Chief Executive Officer - Mike Levy
  • Chief Financial Officer - Sandra Kim
  • President - Pete Koelle
  • President, Investment Management - Jason Kern
  • Chief Technology Officer - Scott Moore
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Carol Hoeller
  • Senior Director, Strategic Projects & Chief of Staff - Thomas Kramer
  • Director, Strategic Project Implementation & Chief of Staff - Grace Brandes
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Kevin Ingham
  • Stephen DeFrancis - Chief Executive Officer

    Stephen DeFrancis, the Chief Executive Officer at Cortland, directs the overarching corporate strategy and operational execution for the global multifamily real estate investment firm. Overseeing all business units, Stephen DeFrancis ensures alignment with the company's mission of creating exceptional living experiences and driving sustainable growth. This leadership role involves guiding the firm's expansion and maintaining its competitive edge in the real estate market. By fostering a culture of innovation and operational excellence, Stephen DeFrancis significantly impacts the company's financial performance and market position. The Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to strategic partnerships and long-term capital allocation, solidifying Cortland's presence in key global markets.

    Mike Levy - Owner & Chief Executive Officer

    Mike Levy, the Owner & Chief Executive Officer at Cortland, holds ultimate responsibility for the firm's strategic direction and ownership vision. Guiding the company's long-term objectives, Mike Levy ensures that Cortland's proprietary design, construction, and management services consistently deliver value and innovation in the multifamily real estate sector. This executive position involves setting the standard for operational excellence and market leadership across all geographic regions where Cortland operates. By championing the company's integrated approach, Mike Levy drives the development of robust supply chains and enhances property and facilities management capabilities. The Owner & Chief Executive Officer's influence is critical in maintaining Cortland's reputation for quality and its commitment to creating superior living environments.

    Sandra Kim - Chief Financial Officer

    Sandra Kim, the Chief Financial Officer at Cortland, manages the firm's financial operations and strategic capital allocation for its global multifamily real estate investments. Overseeing all financial planning, reporting, and risk management, Sandra Kim ensures the fiscal health and sustainable growth of the company. This critical role involves optimizing investment strategies, managing debt financing, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations across all operating regions. By providing insightful financial analysis, the Chief Financial Officer supports executive decision-making and drives profitability. Sandra Kim's expertise is essential in maintaining Cortland's strong financial standing and facilitating its continued expansion through robust supply chain and construction services.
    Sandra Kim

    Pete Koelle - President

    Pete Koelle, the President at Cortland, directs significant operational segments of the global multifamily real estate investment firm, ensuring strategic objectives are met with precision. Overseeing key business functions, Pete Koelle drives the implementation of Cortland's integrated model, encompassing proprietary design, in-house construction, and comprehensive property and facilities management. This leadership position is vital for maintaining operational synergy and fostering innovation across all departments. By focusing on execution excellence, the President ensures that Cortland consistently delivers superior living environments and achieves sustainable growth. Pete Koelle's influence is critical in upholding the company's commitment to quality and its competitive advantage in the real estate market.

    Jason Kern - President, Investment Management

    Jason Kern, the President, Investment Management at Cortland, leads the firm's investment strategies and capital deployment for its global multifamily real estate portfolio. Directing all investment activities, Jason Kern identifies and secures opportunities that align with Cortland's mission of creating exceptional living experiences and driving sustainable growth. This executive role involves rigorous market analysis, financial modeling, and portfolio management to maximize investor returns. By fostering strong relationships with capital partners, the President, Investment Management ensures access to the resources needed for expansion. Jason Kern's strategic oversight is fundamental to Cortland's financial success and its ability to innovate within the real estate investment landscape.

    Scott Moore - Chief Technology Officer

    Scott Moore, the Chief Technology Officer at Cortland, architects and executes the firm's technology strategy, ensuring robust digital infrastructure supports its global multifamily real estate operations. Overseeing all technology initiatives, Scott Moore drives innovation in areas such as property management software, construction technology, and data analytics to enhance efficiency and resident experience. This role is pivotal in leveraging technology to optimize Cortland's proprietary design and supply chain management services. By implementing cutting-edge solutions, the Chief Technology Officer ensures seamless integration across construction, property, and facilities management, directly contributing to operational excellence and market competitiveness. Scott Moore's leadership ensures Cortland remains at the forefront of technological advancement in the real estate industry.

    Carol Hoeller - Chief Marketing Officer

    Carol Hoeller, the Chief Marketing Officer at Cortland, spearheads the company's brand strategy and market positioning for its global multifamily real estate portfolio. Directing all marketing initiatives, Carol Hoeller ensures Cortland's unique value proposition, encompassing proprietary design and integrated services, resonates with target audiences across diverse markets. This executive function involves developing comprehensive campaigns that highlight the firm's commitment to exceptional living experiences and sustainable growth. By overseeing market research and customer engagement, the Chief Marketing Officer drives lead generation and strengthens brand loyalty. Carol Hoeller's strategic vision is instrumental in communicating Cortland's impact and fostering strong relationships with residents and investors alike.
    Carol Hoeller

    Thomas Kramer - Senior Director, Strategic Projects & Chief of Staff

    Thomas Kramer, the Senior Director, Strategic Projects & Chief of Staff at Cortland, drives the execution of high-priority strategic initiatives across the organization. Overseeing project management for key developments, Thomas Kramer ensures seamless integration of Cortland's proprietary design, construction, and management services. This role involves close collaboration with executive leadership to translate strategic objectives into actionable plans, enhancing operational efficiency and market responsiveness. By managing cross-functional teams and facilitating communication, the Senior Director, Strategic Projects & Chief of Staff ensures timely and successful project completion. Thomas Kramer's focus on strategic implementation directly supports Cortland's mission of delivering exceptional living experiences and fostering sustainable growth.

    Grace Brandes - Director, Strategic Project Implementation & Chief of Staff

    Grace Brandes, the Director, Strategic Project Implementation & Chief of Staff at Cortland, oversees the successful execution of critical strategic projects within the company's global operations. Directing implementation efforts, Grace Brandes ensures that Cortland's integrated approach to multifamily real estate, including construction and property management, is effectively deployed. This position requires meticulous planning and coordination to align project outcomes with the firm's overarching business objectives and commitment to innovation. By acting as a key liaison between departments, the Director, Strategic Project Implementation & Chief of Staff facilitates efficient workflow and problem-solving. Grace Brandes's dedication to project success underpins Cortland's ability to deliver high-quality living environments and maintain its market leadership.

    Kevin Ingham - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Kevin Ingham, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Cortland, leads the company's human capital strategy, fostering a culture that supports its global multifamily real estate endeavors. Overseeing talent acquisition, development, and employee engagement, Kevin Ingham ensures Cortland attracts and retains top talent essential for its integrated design, construction, and management services. This executive role is crucial in aligning HR policies with the company's mission to create exceptional living experiences and drive sustainable growth. By championing employee well-being and professional development, the Chief Human Resources Officer cultivates a high-performing workforce. Kevin Ingham's strategic leadership in human resources is fundamental to Cortland's operational excellence and its ability to innovate across all business functions.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Cortland Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Cortland?
    Cortland is led by Stephen DeFrancis (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Mike Levy (Owner & Chief Executive Officer) and Sandra Kim (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Cortland’s executive team?
    The executive team of Cortland includes leaders such as Stephen DeFrancis (Chief Executive Officer), Mike Levy (Owner & Chief Executive Officer), Sandra Kim (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Cortland have?
    Cortland has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Cortland’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Cortland includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Owner & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President, President, Investment Management.